Favorite Places: Worcester Historical Museum's Salisbury Mansion

WORCESTER - Historic homes are a dime a dozen in some parts of the state, but Worcester is home to only one historic house museum. The Salisbury Mansion, part of the Worcester Historical Museum, is considered one of the best documented historic house museums in New England. The Salisbury Mansion, built in 1772 as a combination house and store, is located on Highland Street. Originally located at Lincoln Square, the structure has gone through many changes over the years, including serving as a rooming house and a gentleman’s club. It served as the home of “gentleman-merchant” Stephen Salisbury. Salisbury Mansion curator and historian Holly Izard said there was a lot of activity around the store when court came to town. The Salisburys made their money primarily through investments, ship cargos and real estate. The structure was originally Georgian in style. After the store closed, the store space was turned into living space, and that part is Federal style. “It’s kind of an awkward house,” Izard said. “It has a very fancy Georgian parlor, two fancy drawing rooms and a Federal hallway. It’s one the grandest buildings that was ever built in Worcester, but it was pieced together.” The home is furnished with some unique pieces, ranging from early 18th century Queen Anne to 1820s Boston Classical. On display are Stephen Salisbury’s standing desk, a high-end Chippendale, purchased from a Boston cabinet-maker in 1772; a Boston Classical sofa with falcon heads embellishing the front legs; an 18th century harp, and more. “People are astounded by the elegance of it,” Izard said. “It’s very much an urban house built in rural Worcester County. Most of Worcester County is (from the) 1730s or later. To find something this grand just a generation in is impressive.” The Salisbury Mansion offers special programming throughout the year, including children’s programs during school vacations and summer. IF YOU GO Salisbury Mansion WHERE: 40 Highland St., Worcester, MA HOURS: Thursday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. ADMISSION: $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, free for children under 18. Admission includes Salisbury Mansion, museum galleries and library. Additional nominal fee for tours. DIRECTIONS: Take Mass Pike to exit 10/Route 290 East. Turn left on Belmont Street/Route 9. At the fifth set of lights, turn left onto Lancaster St. At the third set of lights, turn left on Pleasant St. At the end of the block, turn left onto Chestnut St. The museum is the last building on the block on your left. FOR MORE INFO: 508-753-8278 or info@worcesterhistory.net